Campbelltown residents know that Macquarie Links is a prestige residential estate with a top class 18 hole golf course and clubhouse.
What most of us don’t know however is that there is a very large block of undeveloped land at the highest point of the estate from where on most days you can see the Harbour Bridge and the city skyline.
This secret asset of Macquarie Links located across from the houses on Governor’s Way, offers more than just great views – there are scenic walks through a forested ridge facing Ingleburn and in open space towards the M5, as well as a soccer field with goalposts.
Unfortunately, its days as open space for the community to enjoy could be numbered.
Plans are being drawn up by Monarch Investments, the developer behind Macquarie Links estate more than two decades ago, to develop the land into around 30 residential lots.
Monarch is proposing a joint venture with the residents of Macquarie Links, with the two parties to share the profits from the subdivision and sale of the building blocks.
The estate is strata title, with Monarch communicating to the current committee regarding its proposal.
In documents seen by the South West Voice, Monarch CEO Peter Icklow suggests that the joint venture could produce a total profit of around $24 million.
Residents would share $14.5 million of that, with $8.7 million going to Monarch Investments.
Right now, standing in the way of this plan is a former mayor of Campbelltown, Les Patterson, who lives in Governor’s Way, directly opposite the land in question.
Mr Patterson doesn’t mince his words when I interviewed him about his opposition.
“This open space is the jewel in the crown of Macquarie Links,’’ he says.
“People need to remember that once this open space is gone, it’s gone forever.
“It’s a beautiful spot with the forested area in the east. But the trees there will have to go because no doubt the new estate will be marketed for its views,’’ Mr Patterson said.
“It means the residents of Ingleburn, who got a rotten deal out of Macquarie Links, will no longer enjoy the view of a forested area on the ridge of this beautiful open space.
“I am going to fight this because it’s just not right.
“It’s just a greedy money grab,’’ Mr Patterson said.
Oh the irony of a previous mayor complaining about the land development when it affects him!
I don’t care about the irony, if there is any. This land was always meant to be kept free of homes, there was always a promise that no roof would be visible from the freeway. Really disappointing if this goes ahead.
This area should never be developed. It is against the original policy of the development of Macquarie Links. It is totally a greed. They are dangling a carrot in front of residents to get it approved. It will be a total shame if it gets approved. I am totally against it.
It’s about having green space for not only us to enjoy but safety for all the wildlife habitat a place to relax and enjoy the views and walks and just breathe .